#passes the time nicely through this thunderstorms because i can't sleep with the thunder being this loud

[princedesnuees]

THUNDERSTORM — amab!reader x jaehyun.

pairing: amab!reader x jaehyun. genre: romance, fluff. summary: a storm forces you to seek shelter in a café; inside, you make an encounter that changes everything. warnings: smoking, thunderstorm, soft sex, mutual masturbating. words: 5k

What crappy weather.

You didn't expect it would rain this hard. In a way, it's a good thing, because you've found a café where you can rest until the downpour passes, and where you can enjoy a nice, warm cup of coffee. One reason you're not in a hurry to get home is because you know that, as usual, your parents will be pissed off after their day's work and will still be yelling at you to do the housework. No, you really don't want to. And they can't blame you for taking shelter during a storm, can they?

There are people all around. People arriving, soaking wet. A few groups of friends who were there before you. People are chatting, moving around, commenting on the bad weather. A clap of thunder strikes, almost causing you to spill your cup. Just as you jump, your tray swings around and threatens to hit the floor, but a deft hand catches it just in time. Your eyes widen.

"Wow, amazing reflexes!" you comment, impressed.

"Better not to overload to the staff." he answers. And you understand, because the staff is very busy and don't know where to turn.

"Have you been here for long?" he asks, and this makes you realize that, in reality, you have no idea, because you haven't looked at the clock since you arrived. You glance at your cell phone and realize you've already been here a whole hour.

"Wow, an hour already."

Your tray-saver smiles, and you can't help noticing the dimples that delicately hollow out the corners of his lips. To be honest, you're almost blushing.

"Yeah, time flies here. It's nice. I come here often."

"This is my first time. Do you want to sit down?" You say, pointing to the empty seat opposite. Your interlocutor smiles wider. You understand that he must have been looking for a place to sit, but the space is crowded with all the people already there. He grabs the chair and sits down, sweatshirt sleeves rolled up. His hand runs through his hair, disciplining a few blonde strands. You don't know why, but the gesture alone is enough to make you feel a strange sensation in your stomach. You wiggle your face to pull yourself together.

"Hm. Are you here to run away from the storm?"

"That's it. I was expecting a friend, but I don't think he's coming. He's tied up with work."

"Ah shit." You raise your cup to your lips. "Would you like a drink?"

"I usually go for an americano."

"Usually?"

"Already finished mine." His grin evolves further. You notice the color of his lips, a beautiful pigmented pink. Blinking, you avert your gaze.

"So I'll buy you another, it's well worth the tray."

"Let's go!"

You manage to catch the eye of a waiter who is wandering between customers with difficulty. He comes back to you with the requested drink, steaming hot.

"You're a chef, thanks."

"My pleasure. And your name?"

"Jaehyun."

Jaehyun.

You don't have time to point out the singularity of the first name when another bolt of lightning strikes outside, startling the assembly.

"Oh fuck, that was a good one! I love thunderstorms." It's not a passion, but it's close. You have this uncanny ability to sleep soundly even when there's thunder outside. You don't know why, you find it soothing, mostly with the sound of the rain. But being in the rain isn't really your thing.

Jaehyun smiles at you. You don't know if he shares the same passion, but you feel he's interested in what you're saying. Shit, man. He's got to stop looking at you like that. That makes you feel…

"You should come around more often."

"Hm?"

"They often update their menu, so there's always something new to try. I like coming here for that too."

"Oh yeah, we can try it together!" The "we" inadvertently slipped out and you're about to tone it down, when Jaehyun's words catch you off guard.

"Definitely. I don't really have any mates who enjoy having coffee after coffee like me. This'll be nice to try."

"Do you live around here?"

"A little north of town. I come by bus. How about you?"

"A little south…" But something inside you suddenly wants to migrate further north. "There's more to do up north, you're in luck."

"That's what everyone says, but the truth is, it's not that crazy."

"Did you go to the carnival, last Sunday?"

"Oh yeah, it was great, there was a parade with animatronics! Did you see them?"

"YES! I was there, around four o'clock, I couldn't get there before but I stayed until the end of the parade!"

"Hey, maybe we ran into each other. I was with a bunch of buddies. There was a churro stand right next to the church. We got a pack for five, I swear, we busted our guts."

"I can believe that. We rushed to the hot dog stands…" It does something to you to know that Jaehyun was there too, but you didn't know he existed yet, and vice versa. Basically, the city isn't that huge, even if it is known for its tourism and its many historical structures. Jaehyun smiles at you, gradually finishing his drink. And unlike you, he's managed to finish his snack without spilling it all over the table. It's funny how this guy has something between casual and neat. You can't quite explain it. You're even wondering when Jaehyun pulls back his chair to leave the table. He pulls a packet from his pocket.

"The weather's clearing up a bit. I'm going for a smoke."

"Oh, can I come with you?" You don't know why, but you asked out of pure reflex, because the truth is, you don't smoke. And you've never even touched a cigarette in your life.

"Sure."

And you grab your coat in a hurry before joining Jaehyun at the storefront. It's a bit windy and rainy, but much less than earlier. The sight of a thunderstorm rumbling in the distance is even more captivating to watch than from inside. You bundle up in your jacket, fearing the icy breeze, while Jaehyun is out in his sweater.

"Aren't you cold???"

"Nah. I'm not really sensitive to cold."

Guided to his lips, the tip of his cigarette sparkles. The vision clouds your mind. There's something hypnotic about watching that flame dance.

"Do you smoke?"

"Uh, actually, no." You laugh nervously at the revelation. You don't want to come across as clingy, but you simply couldn't resist joining Jaehyun outside.

"Want to give it a try?" He hands you the open package, and then… You hesitate. Normally you'd say no, but now… Something inside you wants to get on the same wavelength as your Jaehyun. Maybe to… impress him?

"You don't have to."

"Yes, I am curious." You grab a cylinder, which you slip between your lips. Since you supposedly have no fire on you, it's Jaehyun's lighter that comes to prime the cancerous one. And inevitably, as the big newbie you are, you cough like a loser. And that makes the blond guy laugh. A laugh that transcends you in a way you'd never imagined. His voice was already deep and penetrating, but here… It sends a shiver up your spine.

"It's always like that the first time. After that, it gets better."

He blows the tobacco smoke skywards, and you imitate him, taking another drag. You look ridiculous because you've always been told that you don't look like a smoker anyway.

"This stuff tastes really weird."

"This is what tobacco tastes." he simply says, tapping his cigarette above the void. Ash flies out.

"The sky's starting to clear… My parents will yell at me if I'm home too late."

"Do you live with them?"

"I wish I lived somewhere else."

"Enjoy. Family is precious."

You get the impression that there's some heaviness in his words. That he's not just saying that.

"And where do you live?"

"I live in a flat share. I left the nest to study."

Why does that sound like the beginning of a tragic story? It couldn't be more classic. It's a weird impression you get. Well, the cigarette won't last long with you. You resolve to crush the rest in the ashtray by the entrance. You've lost the battle, but not the war.

As for Jaehyun, he seems to be savoring the moment. And his silhouette stands out perfectly against the stormy panorama. You contemplate, silent. Before the sound of a notification catches your attention. You reach into your coat pocket for your phone. Discover that, obviously, your mother is summoning you home as soon as possible now that the squall has subsided.

"I'm going to have to get back."

"Oh yeah? Take care of yourself, then."

"We… We'll see each other again?"

"I come here a lot, I told you."

That should reassure you, but you're not at ease. You want… more. You want more.

"Can I have your number?"

You can tell he's surprised by the request. He brings his cigarette to his lips, before stepping closer. Pulls his phone out of his jeans.

"Yeah. Open your phonebook."

"Done."

You carefully record his number and add his first name. With such proximity, you realize that Jaehyun is much taller than you. His cologne travels to you. It smells good. It's virile, a little woody, a little full-bodied… And you certainly didn't expect him to ruffle your hair with an almost brotherly sweep of his hand, before winking at you.

"Get home safe."

"… Yes."

Your heart is pounding. You go back inside to pay quickly, but it's mostly to hide the scarlet tint your cheeks have taken on under the unexpected contact. On your way out, you wave to Jaehyun, before hurrying home in a fine drizzle, but a drizzle that still exists. One thing's for sure, your meeting with Jaehyun will give you the kind of evening you haven't had in a while.

"Hi Jaehyun. Do you remember me? I'm the one you met at the cafe when it stormed three days ago. I hope the americano was good. I'd love to see you again sometime. See you."

Crap.

You didn't think of that detail, but… He still doesn't know your first name. When you saved it in your phone, it was easy, you just had to add "Jaehyun". But how will he know it's you? Will he even remember you? It's been three days since you met. In fact, you didn't send a message because… You don't know. You're a bit afraid of disturbing someone. You don't want to rush things either. But at the same time… It's just an acquaintance, right? So there's no need to stress. Why are you so freaked out, then? And more importantly… Doesn't that sound like a cheesy message?

You don't have time to think, your phone just vibrated. A notification. You throw yourself on your mobile, both panicked and overexcited.

"Yo! Of course I remember you. Thanks for the coffee, it was delicious. Let's do it again sometime. Are you free this weekend? There's an arcade that just opened downtown. If you want, we can go together. Jay"

Oh fuck. Fuck fuck fuck!

"Cool! With pleasure for the arcade, I love it. Shall we meet at the main square Saturday around two?"

Why do you feel nervous like you're talking to your biggest star? It's just a guy you met in a café during a storm. You send the message, and drop into bed, eyes glued to the ceiling. Damn, you're breathing like you've run a marathon. But you smile, too happy, and you don't know if it's because Jaehyun remembers you, or if it's because… You're already looking forward to the day you're going to spend together. You don't know why he made such an impression on you, even though he didn't do anything special. Once again, your phone rings. You turn around to unlock the screen and jump into the conversation.

"Nice. By the way, you never told me your name."

You silly. How could he know? You laugh nervously before tapping the keyboard and sending. No more little stranger in the café. Now, you each have someone to call by his first name.

Saturday arrives, and you don't know how to express how nervous you are. You even spent three hours thinking about your outfit, before settling on the simplest. Sweatshirt, cargo pants and sneakers, your safe bet. Furthermore, you're in luck because, unlike last time, there's no storm on the horizon.

You've been waiting by the fountain for a few minutes, your nose bent over your phone, watching for any messages. Nothing. So you kill time on Instagram, until you hear your name called in the distance. Then you straighten your neck, trying to figure out where the voice is coming from. And you smile broadly when you see a familiar blond hair advancing towards you.

"Jay!" The use of the nickname is almost instinctive.

"Yooooo! You didn't wait too long? Sorry, I was stopped by a little granny who wanted me to help her cross. We're in luck, there's great sunshine today."

Yes. Too bad you'll be spending the day cooped up in an arcade, then.

"No, I'm fine, I haven't been here for even five minutes. How are you?"

"Great. Good to see you again."

The statement makes you blush.

"Really?"

"Yeah. I was wondering what had become of you. I didn't have your number. My favorite little smoker."

"Don't laugh, I just wanted to try!"

"I'm not laughing, it was cute."

What do you mean, you can blush even harder…?

"If you say so…"

"Well, shall we go? The arcade is in the alley right next door."

You already thought he was very relaxed at the café, but now you even feel like you're seeing an extrovert. He's on the move. You wouldn't be surprised if he had all kinds of friends, and it even makes you wonder why he chooses to spend the day just with you. A guy dropping his tray isn't that striking, is it?

"Wow."

The building is plunged into darkness, and in the midst of everyone who's already there, you swear you're in some kind of cyberpunk metropolis with all those lights and neon and virtual terminals.

"This is awesome!!!" You approach the game machine, excited as a kid. Jaehyun arrives, amused to see you so enthusiastic.

"Yeah. They opened a month ago. Basically, everything's brand new. Want to try a game?"

"Over there!" You point to a machine with patterns that draw you in. It's a fighting game that looks like it's only playable solo, but nothing to worry about when Jaehyun simply stands behind your back and accompanies you through the game.

"Come on, take this!!" Your hands go wild over the joystick and buttons. Actually, you're pressing totally randomly, as it's always the case with fighting games. You hear Jaehyun laughing behind you, and it makes you straighten your eyes.

"What?"

"It'll be better if you do it like this. Look."

He places his hands around yours, and it's amazing how small they look, wrapped under Jaehyun's. Is it you it's really hot all of a sudden?

"You see? It's simpler. You make this combination and you're sure to win."

"Oh yeah…"

Yeah? You're barely listening, too busy watching that jaw angle he's offering you in that ambiguous posture. You feel his chest against your back. His scent enveloping you, driving you mad. You even feel him close to your ear, watching the screen with you. Your heart's beating a thousand miles an hour.

Fucking hell, calm down.

"And then… BOOM!" he manipulates your controller, still guiding your hand. On the screen, enemies fall one by one. But you can't really see it, because everything inside you is shaking, hot and hypnotized by the manly arms around you. By that voice that advises you, congratulates you when you win, and laughs when you lose. Your feverish fingers almost slip off the joysticks.

The end-of-game screen appears. Once again, Jaehyun's hand passes through your hair, setting you on fire.

"Want to try another game?"

"… Yeah."

"Look, that looks pretty good."

You play one game after another all afternoon, and you're not sure if it's the enclosed space that's making you so hot, or if it's something else. And you're afraid of that something else. Afraid you're starting to feel something you shouldn't. You dismiss these thoughts with a shake of your head, then go to get something to eat and drink.

The evening passes by itself, you don't see the time go by. It's when you glance at the time on your phone that you are saddened to see that the arcade is already closing soon. You make your way back to the exit as you finish your soda.

The sky begins to take on darker colors, a sign that night is approaching.

"The time passed so quickly, it's crazy." you say, before tossing your cup into the trash.

"We had a lot of fun, didn't we? It was great. They've got really good games, I've missed that."

"Thanks for bringing me here."

"You're welcome, it was well worth the americano. Are you going home now?"

"Yes. My mother wants me to help her tidy up. I'm lazy…"

Jaehyun laughed softly. "I can just imagine you, in the middle of boxes and dust. Tidying everything up."

"Don't laugh, my mother hates mess. She yells if we don't clean up the kitchen after we come over."

"I wish my roommates were that disciplined. The flat is a mess."

The flat. You'd like to see what it looks like, the kind of place he lives in. What his life is like, quite simply.

"I'll come and help you tidy up, if you want. I'm used to do it now."

"Hahaha, why not? Maybe it'll teach my roommates the rules of etiquette."

Instantly, you blush, because you weren't expecting some kind of positive response.

"Anyway, it was cool. I'm glad you came with me." His voice sounds a little deeper, suddenly.

"Didn't you have anyone to go with?"

"My buddies aren't too interested in geek culture. Old games and stuff aren't their thing."

"Oh."

"So I'm glad that we can do it together."

Together. It's your turn to smile, delighted. You don't know how to say it, but you're happy to have been able to share this moment with him. In the end, all this doesn't help you know how to say goodbye to Jaehyun. Should you give him a kiss on the cheek? Give him a manly pat on the back and say bye? Just walk away? Luckily, it's him who comes to solve the problem for you.

Against all expectations, he slips his arm around your neck before starting to walk up the street. "I'll walk you to the bus." You say nothing, simply nodding. At the bus stop, you wait a few minutes before the long vehicle arrives. You climb in, crossing the rows of seats to a seat at the back, waving to Jaehyun. You don't know if it's the rain starting to fall, but through the window you feel as if you've seen him wink at you.

When you get home, you walk up to your bedroom, throwing your bag at the foot of your bed. You fall into it, exhausted and happy. Downstairs, you hear your mother calling you, and never in your life have you answered her in such a joyful tone.

It's twenty-two o'clock. You're exhausted. The day has finished you off. You're lying in bed with the lights off, only your computer's lighting up your room. And you're still working on a school project when you get a message.

"Hi, my favorite gamer! I hope you had a good day. I know it's been tough today, but if you need to talk, I'm here."

Only Jay can get you to smile after such a long and hard day. You answer.

"Feel like playing a little game before bed."

You smile, because you know Jay's always up for it. And that's your little reward: a good half-hour's game before bed. It's been like this for over two weeks now. Every night, a game. And during the day, you continue to exchange messages. It's a way of getting through the day and holding on, before enjoying the evening. Just like now.

Headphones on, you check the results of the day's games.

"We climbed up the ranking!"

"Did we?"

Jay's voice rings out from the other end of the microphone. You hear him, and get the impression that he's a little tired, too. His voice is deeper than usual.

"Yeah! We're getting better every day, diamond rank is ours in no time!" You might be reaching a bit too far, but you like to dream.

"That would be cool. Imagine, we become pro players."

"Would you embark on a career as an e-sport player?"

"Why not? If I could, I'd do that. I've got nothing to lose."

"What about your studies?"

"Almost finished. After that: freedom."

"That's right. You're lucky."

"It'll be your turn soon, don't worry."

You lie back more comfortably in your bed, staring at the ceiling. You cherish these moments with Jay. He's understanding, always present and open-minded.

"Hey, Jay."

"Hm?"

"Why… Do you spend so much time with me?"

And now you don't know if he heard you or if the microphone's cut off, because quite some time passes before you realize the silence that fills the room. You straighten your neck, not sure if your connection is good.

But then a voice calls out.

"Because I like being with you. You make me laugh, we have fun, time always passes faster when you're around." You can feel the temperature gradually rising. "And because, with you, I can really be myself. Share my passions. I told you, I don't really have any buddies who like games."

"So it's just for that?"

"No, I…" It's rare that you hear him hesitate like that. So you strain your ear further. "… I think you're cute."

Your myocardium misses a step.

"C… Cute?"

"Yeah. You… In the café where we met. I thought you looked cute."

"Wait, you'd already seen me?"

"I saw you as soon as you walked into the café. You looked a little lost in thought. Quiet in the middle of all those people. I thought it was… I don't know. Endearing." You say nothing. But not because you haven't heard. "You know, I knew you didn't smoke, I mean, it was obvious. But when you tried it anyway, it did something to me. I thought you were attractive." Silent, your hand wanders to your belly. "There's something about you that doesn't leave me indifferent." You reach under your sweater. Caress a flat surface. Warm.

"Me too…"

"Huh?"

His surprise is audible. And… Luckily, he can't see how red you are. How everything in you vibrates. Only calls him.

"Every night, I… I wait until you're home so we can talk. Tell each other about our day." Even here, near your ribs, it's hot. "Playing together. Going out in town. At the arcade, the first time… I… When you stood behind me… I felt… good…"

Your fingers wander, brushing against your inflamed skin. Your breathing quickens, too.

"I was wondering what was so special about me that you'd give me so much time. You're a popular guy with lots of friends, you're cool, you attract everyone around you… Me, I'm all alone, I don't hang out with anyone. I'm nothing special."

Now your hand is sliding down. Hovering around your covered underbelly.

In fact, saying all this out loud almost makes you sad.

"I think you're wrong." Jay's voice resonates. It soothes something inside you, as it always does. You close your eyes, letting his voice seep into each of your thoughts. Every pore of your skin that you touch, discovering for the first time. "Can't you see that you're different from the others, and in the best way possible? You're funny, a bit shy, but most importantly, you're curious about everything, you want to try new things. I always want to protect you." There's something warm that catches your attention below your belly. "I've never felt this way about anyone." Passing your hand isn't very difficult. You flirt with the edge of a fabric. "At the arcade, when I was behind you, I wanted to…" You inhale. Exhale. Because in reality, you guess exactly what he's going to say.

"You wanted to kiss me."

It's his turn to stop. A silence passes. But it's not an awkward silence. It's the silence of two people realizing they feel the same way. So you continue.

"Me too. I wanted to. I could smell you… And your voice… You don't realize, your voice, the effect it has on me…" Maybe he could realize, if he saw you make your hand tremble over an area that grows bigger and bigger as your caresses venture. "Jay."

"Are you… touching yourself?"

A smile springs to your lips. Your eyes slowly open. A whisper escapes.

"Yes."

"Does it feel good?"

"Yes. Very much."

"I want to see you."

"Do you want me to… turn on my camera?"

"Please."

Your free arm reaches out. You palpate a little blindly, seek to activate the button so the webcam reveals you, sprawled in the middle of your sheets, one hand buried between your thighs.

"Fuck…"

"Jay…"

"You…"

You blush undeniably, both ashamed and… happy. Happy, despite the important shape you can't hide, and which now becomes bigger and bigger in the palm of your hand.

"I want to see you too."

"Don't be afraid, please."

But what would you be afraid of? So you wait. You wait, and your eyes widen as a window opens on the screen, revealing the blond sitting in his chair, his wrist disappearing behind the elastic of his boxer shorts.

"Jay, you…"

"Sorry… It's been… since we finished our game."

So that's what the deeper voice was about. You smile. Almost laugh. Without stopping your movements.

"You're beautiful…" you whisper. Because Jaehyun is even more beautiful when you saw him like that, slumped in his seat, pants open. You only dared to imagine him in this posture in your wildest dreams. And the sight before you makes you even harder as your hand works to enhance your arousal.

"I'm… going to cum."

"Let's do it together, Jay…"

And you pick up the pace. Listen to the blond's moans, which he'd probably been holding back for a long time. God, that's good. His voice, when he grunts… When he… can't stand the feel of his hand on his crotch. Seeing him squirm under his own pleasure, watching you touch yourself. It feels good. It's so good it doesn't take you long to come. He joins you in your bliss, shouting your name. Your name and nobody else's. In your orgasm, you stain a piece of your sheets, your pelvis convulsing. Your breathing is erratic. You're hot, you're burning, everything inside you starts to tremble. Wanting the presence of the one man who manages to put you in such a state.

"Jaehyun… I… want you…"

"Fuck…"

You might have dirtied your covers, but he couldn't help but spill over the screen of his webcam. And it's driving you crazy. So much so that your sex continues to wobble in your hand, several jets still spurting out. Fucking good.

"T-tomorrow night… Meet at the usual spot…" His deep voice mixed with orgasm is pure delight for your ears. "I want to see you. I want to… touch you. To kiss you. Tell me you'll be there… "

Your hand withdraws, releasing your slowly deflating penis. Offered to the blond's view, you watch him contemplate the view, and you smile, barely embarrassed by your posture between relaxed and obscene.

"I'll be there, Jay… I promise."

[tjerra14]

obligatory Aloy+Ikrie ask just in case nobody asks for it (bc you know I wanna hear your thoughts)

Lou, would you be surprised if I told you that I hit the reblog on that post thinking “hmmm, Lou would probably like to hear my thoughts on this”, so I am very glad that you asked

I’ll be trying to keep this short-ish but you know I’m slightly obsessed with them, so--

Who is more likely to hurt the other? Aloy. Not intentionally, of course--but her habits, especially her constant leaving, and her silent assuming of things that Ikrie doesn’t take for granted, are likely to cause pain she never even considered. In addition, Ikrie isn’t one to voice her wants and needs, always keeping herself back as to not impose, and prone to assume the worst, so it’s a learning process for both.

Who is emotionally stronger? Neither of them, I’d say. They can both take a lot, force themselves to take a lot, trying to keep it together for themselves and for another, push on because they feel they need to. So if one of them breaks, it’s a lot. Who is physically stronger? Ikrie, no question. Bench-presses Aloy for fun. She might be of a similar height as Aloy (Certified Smol), but comes with increased density. Who is more likely to break a bone? They take turns. Last time was Ikrie’s, so I guess Aloy should beware of slippery glaciers? Who knows best what to say to upset the other? They’re both pretty capable of upsetting one another, intentionally or unintentionally, but Ikrie’s tendency to blurt out her thoughts and convictions, especially when her emotions are boiling over, puts her at an advantage at that. And faced with Aloy’s inherent stubbornness, she’s likely to be brutally honest, no prisoners taken. Who is most likely to apologise first after an argument? Weeelll.... funny thing, actually. I’ve been playing through a few scenes to that end in my head and it always ended up with both of them apologising at the same time. Who treats who’s wounds more often? They’re pretty adept at treating each other’s wounds, and sometimes have to do that after the very same fight. You annoy machines for fun, you get what you signed up for. Who is in constant need of comfort? ...Ikrie. Both. Both, but Ikrie. Listen, they find comfort in each other because they understand the other’s struggle with identity and not-belonging and loneliness and-- Who gets more jealous? I’m not entirely sure either of them fully grasps the concept of jealousy. Aloy doesn’t strike me as a particularly jealous person, and Ikrie... Well, Ikrie would probably rather assume she just wasn’t good enough, resign and explore the endless abyss of self-deprecation than be jealous.

Who’s most likely to walk out on the other? Ikrie, in the pursuit of distance, quiet, cold air and a hunt to clear her head. Who will propose? This is five miles deep into my personal headcanons and fics, but in a way, Aloy did already propose. (As much as you can call it that.) While thinking about the significance of Bluegleam for the Banuk, and gift-giving as a show of appreciation/ritual of courtship, I grew fond of the concept of the value of the gift being representative of importance the giving party regards the relationship with. What determines the value of a gift differs on the occasion and the people involved, but considering Bluegleam seems to have spiritual importance from how the Banuk talk about it in Frozen Wilds, and how difficult it seems to be to obtain it (there’s the Stormbird shrine at the end of the Shaman’s Path, which is “meant to be an ordeal” according to Naltuk; and Aloy regularly goes mountain-goating across the map to collect her crystals); I figured it would be very much up there where gifts are concerned. A lasting promise, even if I don’t think Banuk marry in a stricter sense but establish partnerships. So when I had her giving Ikrie a piece of Bluegleam because “it always seemed to belong to her”, that was, to Ikrie and unbeknownst to Aloy, entering such a partnership. Outside of that, you can’t catch either of them proposing, I’m sorry. Who has the most difficult parents? Ikrie’s parents dropped her off at a Banuk Baby Hatch shortly after her birth, does that qualify as difficult? Other than that, both of them suffer the No Family Allowed-Curse Horizon likes to inflict on its characters so much, so they can avoid all difficult parental relationship other than struggling with their absence. Who initiates hand-holding when they’re out in public? They’re not much for hand-holding (especially since those hands are usually busy with climbing or weapons or just gesturing excitedly as they tell each other stories), but Aloy’s far more likely to brush against Ikrie’s hand or take and squeeze it shortly when she notices her being somewhat hesitant and unsure. Or just because she can. Who comes up for the other all the time? I’d be lying if I said I understood this question. Who hogs the blankets? Ikrie. It’s a bad habit and Aloy’s the one much more prone to freezing even in a more temperate climate, but well. Many blankets and a fire were crucial for survival in Ban-Ur, so she still does it. Should they actually be in colder areas, they usually have enough for both of them on hand and share warmth whenever possible. However, both are ridiculously restless sleepers, so it’s not always a nice, refreshing experience.

Who gets more sad? Sad? No one’s even marginally sad. What do you mean you can sometimes find one of them sitting alone on a rock overlooking a lake or meadow or entire valley staring into the middle distance with a weird shadow on their expression? Who is better at cheering the other up? Definitely Ikrie. She’s practised in that. Mailen used to get sad from time to time and since she didn’t know how to deal with that, she resorted to what she always felt was fun: hunting, or a new challenge. It always worked. It also works on Aloy. Who’s the one that playfully slaps the other all the time after they make silly jokes? Ikrie ended up with a Slap Subscription, but it’s her own damn fault. Aloy lives for her smirks and smugness and carefree laughter when she dodges her hand, though. Who is more streetwise? Ikrie’s grown up with her tribe, and without parents. They may have taken care of her so she could survive but other than that it seems she was mostly left to roam free, and in doing so, picked up a bunch of tricks and skills Aloy, Rost-grown outcast, might be unfamiliar with. Who is more wise? Wisdom runs away screaming whenever one of them comes near. ...okay, that might not entirely be fair to them, but they’re young and reckless and impulsive and feral gremlins at that so wise decisions beyond basic survival skills happen less regularly than unwise ones. They’ll learn. Who’s the shyest? Depends on the situation. Surrounded by a large group of people? Ikrie, even if she does her best to not show it. In intimate settings, with each other? Aloy. Who boasts about the other more? Less boasting about the other as a person they’re with, but praising their skill--Ikrie would be insufferable in that. Aloy politely smiles, nods, and pulls her aside to tell her to tone it down a little, after all, she absolutely sucks with a sling, and-- Too late, the entirety of the Forbidden West now knows about that one time Aloy managed to topple over a Thunderjaw with a well-placed shock wave from her spear. Who sits on who’s lap? Depends on who sat down first. Although laps are less seats and more headrests.